Connect with TRB

COMPARISON OF DECISION ALGORITHMS FOR SOLVING INCOMPATIBLE TRAFFIC SITUATIONS BY MEANS OF SIMULATION

Train control decisions on the sequence of trains in cases of conflict in traffic are now being taken over by machine (e.g. process computers) from man (e.g. traffic controller). This means that considerations extend to more complex decision algorithms, which for time reasons were unable to be used by man. These new decision making rules can in certain circumstances bring important advantages in traffic and train working. The choice of the most suitable decision algorithm is to be made from case to case according to predetermined criteria. Such comparison requires model testing and hence simulation on a large electronic computer. With this in mind the SBB has applied the "small junction" simulation model, which is written in Simula I for the Univac 1108, and conclusive results were obtained. The SBB is currently working on a second generation simulation model, which will make it possible to extend the comparison of decision algorithms to large junctions and is written in Simula 67 for processing on the CDC computer.

Supplemental Notes:

A summary contained in ORE report #AZ40/RP 6/E, RRIS #052600, Section 17, RRIS Bulletin 7502. Restrictions on the use of this document are contained in the explanatory material.